Arizona 2025 Regular Session

Arizona House Bill HB2183 Compare Versions

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11 REFERENCE TITLE: nursing care; assisted living; board State of Arizona House of Representatives Fifty-seventh Legislature First Regular Session 2025 HB 2183 Introduced by Representative Bliss AN ACT Amending sections 36-446, 36-446.03, 36-446.04, 36-446.05, 36-446.06, 36-446.07 and 36-446.12, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to the Board of examiners of nursing care institution administrators and assisted living facility managers. (TEXT OF BILL BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE)
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7070 Amending sections 36-446, 36-446.03, 36-446.04, 36-446.05, 36-446.06, 36-446.07 and 36-446.12, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to the Board of examiners of nursing care institution administrators and assisted living facility managers.
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8080 Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Arizona: Section 1. Section 36-446, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read: START_STATUTE36-446. Definitions In this article, unless the context otherwise requires: 1. "Administrator" or "nursing care institution administrator" means a person who is charged with the general administration of a nursing care institution, whether or not that person has an ownership interest in the institution and whether or not the person's functions and duties are shared with others. 2. "Assisted living facility" has the same meaning prescribed in section 36-401. 3. 2. "Assisted living facility manager" means a person who has responsibility for administering or managing an assisted living facility, whether or not that person has an ownership interest in the institution and whether or not the person's functions and duties are shared with others. 4. 3. "Assisted living facility training program" includes: (a) Training that is required for assisted living facility manager certification. (b) Training that is required for assisted living facility caregivers and that is either: (i) Consistent with the training, competency and test methodology standards developed by the Arizona health care cost containment system administration for in-home direct care workers. (ii) As prescribed in section 36-446.16. 5. 4. "Board" means the board of examiners of nursing care institution administrators and assisted living facility managers. 6. "Department" means the department of health services. 7. "Directed care services" has the same meaning prescribed in section 36-401. 8. "Director" means the director of the department of health services. 5. "Executive director" means the executive director of the board. 9. 6. "Felony involving violence or financial fraud" means any of the following offenses: (a) Sexual abuse of a vulnerable adult. (b) Homicide, including first or second degree murder, manslaughter or negligent homicide. (c) Sexual assault. (d) Sexual exploitation of a vulnerable adult. (e) Commercial sexual exploitation of a vulnerable adult. (f) Child abuse. (g) Abuse of a vulnerable adult. (h) Molestation of a child. (i) Molestation of a vulnerable adult. (j) A dangerous crime against children as defined in section 13-705. (k) Neglect or abuse of a vulnerable adult. (l) Sexual abuse. (m) Causing one's spouse to become a prostitute. (n) Detention of persons in a house of prostitution for debt. (o) Pandering. (p) A felony offense involving domestic violence as defined in section 13-3601 except for a felony offense involving only criminal damage in an amount of more than $250 but less than $1,000 if the offense was committed before June 29, 2009. (q) Any felony offense in violation of title 13, chapter 12. (r) Felony indecent exposure. (s) Felony public sexual indecency. (t) Terrorism. (u) Any offense involving a violent crime as defined in section 13-901.03. (v) Aggravated criminal damage. (w) Theft. (x) Theft by extortion. (y) Forgery. (z) Criminal possession of a forgery device. (aa) Obtaining a signature by deception. (bb) Theft of a credit card or obtaining a credit card by fraudulent means. (cc) Receipt of anything of value obtained by fraudulent use of a credit card. (dd) Forgery of a credit card. (ee) Fraudulent use of a credit card. (ff) Possession of any machinery, plate or other contrivance or incomplete credit card. (gg) A false statement as to financial condition or identity to obtain a credit card. (hh) Fraud by persons authorized to provide goods or services. (ii) Credit card transaction record theft. (jj) Adding poison or another harmful substance to food, drink or medicine. (kk) A criminal offense involving criminal trespass under title 13, chapter 15. (ll) A criminal offense involving burglary under title 13, chapter 15. (mm) A criminal offense under title 13, chapter 23, except terrorism. (nn) A felony offense involving domestic violence as defined in section 13-3601 if the offense involved only criminal damage in an amount of more than $250 but less than $1,000 and the offense was committed before June 29, 2009. (oo) Taking the identity of another person or entity. (pp) Aggravated taking the identity of another person or entity. (qq) Trafficking in the identity of another person or entity. (rr) Welfare fraud. (ss) Kidnapping. (tt) Robbery, aggravated robbery or armed robbery. 10. 7. "Nursing care institution": (a) Means an institution or other place, however named, whether for profit or not, including facilities operated by this state or a subdivision of this state, that is advertised, offered, maintained or operated for the express or implied purpose of providing care to persons who need nursing services on a continuing basis but who do not require hospital care or care under the daily direction of a physician. (b) Does not include: (i) An institution for the care and treatment of the sick that is operated only for those who rely solely on treatment by prayer or spiritual means in accordance with the tenets of a recognized religious denomination. (ii) Nursing care services that are an integral part of a hospital licensed pursuant to this chapter. 11. 8. "Unprofessional conduct" includes: (a) Dishonesty, fraud, incompetency or gross negligence in performing administrative duties. (b) Gross immorality or proselytizing religious views on patients without their consent. (c) Other abuses of official responsibilities, which may include intimidating or neglecting patients. END_STATUTE Sec. 2. Section 36-446.03, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read: START_STATUTE36-446.03. Powers and duties of the board; rules; fees; fingerprinting A. The board may adopt, amend or repeal reasonable and necessary rules and standards for the administration of this article in compliance with title XIX of the social security act, as amended. B. The board by rule may adopt nonrefundable fees for the following: 1. Initial application for certification as an assisted living facility manager. 2. Examination for certification as an assisted living facility manager. 3. Issuance of a certificate as an assisted living facility manager, prorated monthly. 4. Biennial renewal of a certificate as an assisted living facility manager. 5. Issuance of a temporary certificate as an assisted living facility manager. 6. Readministering an examination for certification as an assisted living facility manager. 7. Issuance of a duplicate certificate as an assisted living facility manager. 8. Reviewing the sponsorship of continuing education programs, for each credit hour. 9. Late renewal of an assisted living facility manager certificate. 10. Reviewing an individual's request for continuing education credit hours, for each credit hour. 11. Reviewing initial applications for assisted living facility training programs. 12. Annual renewal of approved assisted living facility training programs. C. The board may elect officers it deems necessary. D. The board shall apply appropriate techniques, including examinations and investigations, to determine whether a person meets the qualifications prescribed in section 36-446.04. E. On or before July 1, 2024 January 1, 2026, in addition to the requirements prescribed in section 36-446.04, the board shall require each applicant for initial nursing care institution administrator licensure or assisted living facility manager certification to submit a full set of fingerprints to the board for a state and federal criminal history records check pursuant to section 41-1750 and Public Law 92-544. The department of public safety may exchange this fingerprint data with the federal bureau of investigation. F. On its own motion or in response to any complaint against or report of a violation by an administrator of a nursing care institution or a manager of an assisted living facility, the board may conduct investigations, hearings and other proceedings concerning any violation of this article or of rules adopted by the board or by the department. G. In connection with an investigation or administrative hearing, the board may administer oaths and affirmations, subpoena witnesses, take evidence and require by subpoena the production of documents, records or other information in any form concerning matters the board deems relevant to the investigation or hearing. If any subpoena issued by the board is disobeyed, the board may invoke the aid of any court in this state in requiring the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of evidence. H. Subject to title 41, chapter 4, article 4, the board may employ persons to provide investigative, professional and clerical assistance as required to perform its powers and duties under this article. Compensation for board employees shall be as determined pursuant to section 38-611. The board may contract with other state or federal agencies as required to carry out this article. I. The board may appoint review committees to make recommendations concerning enforcement matters and the administration of this article. J. The board by rule may establish a program to monitor licensees and certificate holders who are chemically dependent and who enroll in rehabilitation programs that meet board requirements. The board may take disciplinary action if a licensee or a certificate holder refuses to enter into an agreement to enroll in and complete a board-approved rehabilitation program or fails to abide by that agreement. K. The board shall adopt and use an official seal. L. The board shall adopt rules for the examination and licensure of nursing care institution administrators and the examination and certification of assisted living facility managers. M. The board shall adopt rules governing payment to a person for the direct or indirect solicitation or procurement of assisted living facility patronage. N. The board must provide the chairpersons of the senate and the house of representatives health committees with copies of all board minutes and executive decisions. O. The board by rule shall limit by percentage the amount it may increase a fee above the amount of a fee previously prescribed by the board pursuant to this section. P. The board by rule shall prescribe standards for assisted living facility training programs. The board shall prescribe rules for assisted living facility caregivers that are consistent with the training, competency and test methodology standards developed by the Arizona health care cost containment system administration for in-home direct care workers. Q. The board may: 1. Grant, deny, suspend or revoke approval of, or place on probation, an assisted living facility training program. 2. Impose a civil penalty on an assisted living facility training program that violates this chapter or rules adopted pursuant to this chapter. R. The board may delegate to the executive director the authority to: 1. Dismiss complaints. the executive director shall submit a report of the cases dismissed with the complaint number, respondent's name, credential number and investigation timeline to the board for review at its regular board meetings. 2. Directly refer cases to a formal administrative hearing. 3. Close a case resolved through mediation. 4. Issue letters of concern. 5. Enter into a consent agreement if there is evidence of danger to the public health and safety. 6. Refer cases to the board for a formal interview. 7. Issue cease and desist orders. S. A person who is aggrieved by an action taken by the executive director pursuant subsection R of this section may request the board to review that action by filing with the board a written request within thirty days after that person is notified of the executive director's action by personal delivery or, if the notification is mailed to that person's last known residence or place of business, within thirty-five days after the date on the notification. At the next regular board meeting, the board shall review the executive director's action. On review, the board shall approve, modify or reject the executive director's action. END_STATUTE Sec. 3. Section 36-446.04, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read: START_STATUTE36-446.04. Qualifications; period of validity; exemption A. The board shall issue a license as a nursing care institution administrator pursuant to its rules to any person who meets the following qualifications: 1. Has satisfactorily completed a course of instruction and training approved by the board that: (a) Is designed and sufficiently administered to give the applicant knowledge of the proper needs to be served by nursing care institutions. (b) Includes a thorough background in the laws and rules governing the operation of nursing care institutions and the protection of the interests of the patients in nursing care institutions. (c) Includes thorough training in elements of good health care facilities administration. 2. Has passed an examination administered by the board designed to test for competency in the subject matter referred to in this subsection. 3. Has met one of the following fingerprinting requirements: (a) Has a valid fingerprint clearance card issued pursuant to title 41, chapter 12, article 3.1 and has not been convicted of any felony involving violence or financial fraud. (b) Has provided proof of the submission of an application for a fingerprint clearance card. An applicant who has been denied a fingerprint clearance card must also provide proof that the applicant qualifies for a good cause exception hearing pursuant to section 41-619.55 and has not been convicted of any felony involving violence or financial fraud. 4. Has obtained an associate degree in nursing or a related health profession or is licensed as a health professional in an inpatient health care institution. B. A person who is licensed pursuant to this section must maintain a valid fingerprint clearance card during the valid period of the person's license. C. The board shall issue a certificate as an assisted living facility manager pursuant to its rules to a person who meets the following qualifications: 1. Has satisfactorily completed a course of instruction and training approved by the board that: (a) Is designed and sufficiently administered to give the applicant knowledge of the proper needs to be served by an assisted living facility. (b) Includes a thorough background in the laws governing the operation of assisted living facilities and the protection of the interests of the patients in assisted living facilities. (c) Includes thorough training in elements of assisted living facility administration. 2. Has passed an examination administered by the board that is designed to test for competency in the subject matter prescribed in this subsection. 3. Provides documentation satisfactory to the board that the applicant has completed two thousand eighty hours of paid work experience in a health related field within the preceding five years as prescribed by board rule. 4. Has met one of the following fingerprinting requirements: (a) Has a valid fingerprint clearance card issued pursuant to title 41, chapter 12, article 3.1 and has not been convicted of any felony involving violence or financial fraud. (b) Has provided proof of the submission of an application for a fingerprint clearance card. An applicant who has been denied a fingerprint clearance card must also provide proof that the applicant qualifies for a good cause exception hearing pursuant to section 41-619.55 and has not been convicted of any felony involving violence or financial fraud. D. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, beginning July 1, 2021, all new licenses and certifications issued by the board must be approved by both the board and the department of health services. E. A person who is certified pursuant to this section must maintain a valid fingerprint clearance card during the valid period of the person's certificate. F. In lieu of the requirements contained in subsection A, paragraph 1 or subsection C, paragraph 1 of this section, an applicant may present satisfactory evidence to the board of sufficient education and training in the areas listed in the respective paragraph. G. A license is nontransferable and remains in effect until thirty days after the licensee's birthday of in an even-numbered year, at which time the license may be renewed if the licensee otherwise complies with this article and the license has not been surrendered, suspended or revoked. H. A certificate is nontransferable and remains in effect until thirty days after the certificate holder's birthday of in an odd-numbered year, at which time the certificate may be renewed if the certificate holder otherwise complies with this article and the certificate has not been surrendered, suspended or revoked. I. This section does not apply to managers of adult foster care homes as defined in section 36-401. END_STATUTE Sec. 4. Section 36-446.05, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read: START_STATUTE36-446.05. Reciprocity; present administrators The board may issue a nursing care institution administrator's license, without examination or with partial examination, to any person who holds a current license from another state or territory of the United States provided if both of the following apply: 1. The standards for licensure in such the other state or territory of the United States are at least substantially equivalent to those prevailing in this state, and provided that the applicant is otherwise qualified. 2. The applicant has not been disciplined or had an equivalent license revoked within one year before applying for a license pursuant to this article. END_STATUTE Sec. 5. Section 36-446.06, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read: START_STATUTE36-446.06. Temporary licenses and certificates; renewal A. The board may issue a temporary nursing care institution administrator's license or temporary assisted living facility manager's certificate to individuals who are determined to meet standards established by the board and may revoke or suspend temporary licenses or certificates previously issued by the board in any case in which the individual holding a license or certificate is determined to have substantially failed to conform to the requirements of such standards during the term of the temporary license or certificate. B. A temporary license or certificate is automatically revoked if the licensee or certificate holder fails either the state or national examination during the term of the license or certificate. C. B. Temporary licenses or certificates may be issued without examination, for a single nonrenewable period of one hundred fifty days, to a qualified individual for the purpose of enabling the individual to fill a nursing care institution administrator or assisted living facility manager position. Qualifications for a temporary license or certificate shall include the ability to meet such other standards as are established by the board. D. An applicant for a temporary license or certificate shall not have failed a state or national examination either before or after applying for the temporary license or certificate. C. A temporary license or certificate may be renewed one time for an additional sixty days. END_STATUTE Sec. 6. Section 36-446.07, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read: START_STATUTE36-446.07. Disciplinary actions; grounds for disciplinary action; renewal; continuing education; inactive status; hearings; settlement; judicial review; admission by default; military members A. The board may suspend or revoke the license of any nursing care institution administrator, censure or place on probation any licensed nursing care institution administrator or deny a license as a nursing care institution administrator to any person for any of the following reasons: 1. Conviction of a felony or conviction of any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude. 2. Obtaining or renewing a license by fraud or deceit. 3. Unprofessional conduct. 4. Practicing without biennial licensure. 5. Addiction to or dependency on drugs or alcohol. 6. Wrongful transfer of a license or falsely impersonating another licensee. 7. Unauthorized disclosure of information relating to a patient or a patient's records. 8. Payment to any person for solicitation or procurement, either directly or indirectly, of nursing home patronage. 9. Violation of this article or a rule adopted pursuant to this article. B. The board may suspend or revoke the certificate of an assisted living facility manager, censure or place on probation an assisted living facility manager or deny a certificate as an assisted living facility manager to a person for any of the following reasons: 1. Conviction of a felony or conviction of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude. 2. Obtaining or renewing a certificate by fraud or deceit. 3. Unprofessional conduct. 4. Practicing without biennial certification. 5. Addiction to or dependency on drugs or alcohol. 6. Wrongful transfer of a certificate or falsely impersonating another certificate holder. 7. Unauthorized disclosure of information relating to a resident or a resident's records. 8. Violation of this article or a rule adopted pursuant to this article. C. The board may impose a civil penalty in an amount of not to exceed five hundred dollars more than $500 on any nursing care institution administrator or assisted living facility manager who violates this article or any rule adopted pursuant to this article. Actions to enforce the collection of these penalties shall be brought in the name of this state by the attorney general or the county attorney in the justice court or the superior court in the county in which the violation occurred. Penalties imposed under this section are in addition to and not in limitation of other penalties imposed pursuant to this article. D. The board may file a letter of concern if, in the opinion of the board, while there is insufficient evidence to support direct action against the license of the administrator or the certificate of the manager, there is sufficient evidence for the board to notify the administrator or manager of its concern. The board may issue a nondisciplinary order to a licensee or certificate holder who fails to complete continuing education requirements. A disciplinary or nondisciplinary order of the board may include a requirement to reimburse the board's investigative costs. E. EXCEPT as provided in subsection V of this section, every holder of a nursing care institution administrator's license shall renew it biennially the license every two years by making application applying to the board. The renewals shall be granted as a matter of course if the holder has successfully completed at least fifty hours of continuing education every two years as established by the board in its rules, unless the applicant has acted or failed to act in such a manner or under such circumstances as that would constitute grounds for taking any of the disciplinary actions permitted allowed by this section. The board shall maintain a log of each complaint substantiated by the board or a deficiency report concerning an administrator and shall retain in the administrator's file a copy of each such complaint or report and the action taken on it, if any. The board shall review and consider the administrator's file in determining whether to renew the administrator's license. F. Except as provided in subsection R V of this section, every holder of an assisted living facility manager's certificate shall renew it biennially the certificate every two years by making application applying to the board. The renewals shall be granted as a matter of course if the holder has successfully completed continuing education every two years as established by the board in its rules, unless the applicant has acted or failed to act in a manner or under circumstances that constitute grounds for taking disciplinary action permitted allowed by this section. The board shall maintain a log of each complaint substantiated by the board or a deficiency report concerning a manager and shall retain in the manager's file a copy of each complaint or report and the action taken on it, if any. The board shall review and consider the manager's file in determining whether to renew the manager's certificate. G. Except as provided in subsection R v of this section, failure on the part of any licensed nursing care institution administrator or certified assisted living facility manager to furnish evidence of having attended the required continuing education hours during the preceding two years shall preclude renewal of the license or certificate unless the continuing education requirement is fulfilled within one hundred twenty days. H. On written request to the board, a nursing care institution administrator in good standing may cause the administrator's name and license to be transferred to an inactive list. Any nursing care institution administrator on inactive license status shall pay a license renewal fee. On written request to the board, and subsequent approval by the board, a nursing care institution administrator on inactive license status may resume active license status on meeting twenty-five hours of continuing education requirements within six months and payment of paying the current fee. I. On written request to the board, the board shall transfer an assisted living facility manager in good standing to an inactive list. An assisted living facility manager on inactive certificate status shall pay a certificate renewal fee prescribed by the board of not more than one hundred dollars $100 every two years. On written request to the board, and subsequent approval by the board, an assisted living facility manager on inactive certificate status may resume active certificate status on meeting requirements for six hours of continuing education within six months and payment of paying the current fee. J. Suspension, revocation or denial of renewal of a license or certificate or censure or probation of a licensee or certificate holder by the board becomes effective only on the board's first giving the licensee or certificate holder prior written notice and affording the licensee or certificate holder the right to request a hearing within thirty-five days of after the receipt of notice. A hearing is not required before the denial of an original application for a license or a certificate. All hearings shall be conducted pursuant to title 41, chapter 6, article 10. K. Any person wishing to make a complaint against a licensee or certificate holder under this article shall file a written complaint with the board within one year from after the date of the action causing the complaint. If the board determines that the charges made in the complaint are sufficient, if true, to warrant suspension or revocation of a license or certificate issued under this article or censure or probation of a licensee or certificate holder under this article, it shall issue an order fixing the time and place for a hearing and requiring the licensee or certificate holder complained against to appear and answer the complaint. The order shall have affixed to it a copy of the complaint, and both shall be served on the licensee or certificate holder either personally or by certified mail sent to the licensee's or the certificate holder's last known address at least thirty-five days before the date set for the hearing. All hearings shall be conducted pursuant to title 41, chapter 6, article 10. L. The board and an administrator or manager may enter into a settlement of any matter under investigation either before or after a notice of the hearing has been issued if the board determines that the proposed settlement adequately protects the public safety, health and welfare. The board shall record the terms of each settlement entered into and shall make the record available for public inspection. M. Except as provided in section 41-1092.08, subsection H, final decisions of the board are subject to judicial review pursuant to title 12, chapter 7, article 6. N. If the board has initiated an investigation pursuant to this section, the board may continue the investigation and discipline the person under investigation even if that person resigns from practice after the board has initiated the investigation. O. A licensee or certificate holder shall respond in writing to the board within thirty-five days after the board serves the complaint and notice of a formal hearing by certified mail. Service is complete on the date the board places the notice in the mail. The board shall consider a licensee's or certificate holder's failure to respond to the notice within thirty-five days as an admission by default to the allegations stated in the complaint. The board may then take disciplinary action against the licensee or certificate holder without conducting a formal hearing. P. If after completing its investigation the board believes that the information provided under subsection K of this section is or may be true, the board may request a formal interview with the licensee or certificate holder. If the licensee or certificate holder refuses the invitation for a formal interview or accepts and the results indicate that grounds may exist for revocation or suspension of the license or certificate for more than twelve months, the board shall issue a formal complaint and order that a hearing be held pursuant to title 41, chapter 6, article 10. If after completing a formal interview the board finds that the protection of the public requires emergency action, the board may order a summary suspension of the license or certificate pending formal revocation proceedings or other action authorized by this section. Q. If after completing the formal interview the board finds the information provided under subsection K of this section is not of sufficient seriousness to merit suspension for more than twelve months or revocation of the license or certificate, the board may take any of the following actions: 1. Dismiss if, in the opinion of the board, the complaint is without merit. 2. Require the licensee or certificate holder to complete designated continuing education courses. 3. File a letter of concern. The licensee or certificate holder may file a written response with the board within thirty days after the licensee or certificate holder receives the letter of concern. A letter of concern is a public document. 4. Enter into an agreement with the licensee or certificate holder to restrict or limit the licensee's or certificate holder's professional activities or to rehabilitate, retrain or assess the licensee or certificate holder in order to protect the public. The board may also require the licensee or certificate holder to successfully complete a board-approved rehabilitative, retraining or assessment program at the licensee's or certificate holder's own expense. 5. File a letter of reprimand. 6. Issue a decree of censure. A decree of censure is an official action against the license or certificate and may include a requirement for restitution of fees to a patient resulting from any violation of this article or rules adopted pursuant to this article. 7. Fix a period and terms of probation best adapted to protect the public health and safety and rehabilitate or educate the licensee or certificate holder. Probation may include temporary suspension for not more than twelve months, a restriction of the license or certificate or education or rehabilitation at the licensee's or certificate holder's own expense. If a licensee or certificate holder fails to comply with the terms of probation, the board shall serve the licensee or certificate holder with a written notice that states that the licensee or certificate holder is subject to a formal hearing based on the information considered by the board at the formal interview and on any other act or conduct alleged to be in violation of this article or rules adopted by the board pursuant to this article, including noncompliance with the terms of probation, a consent agreement or a stipulated agreement. The licensee or certificate holder shall pay the costs associated with probation monitoring each year during which the licensee or certificate holder is on probation. The board may adjust this amount on an annual basis. The board may allow a licensee or certificate holder to make payments on an installment plan if a financial hardship occurs. A licensee or certificate holder who does not pay these costs within thirty days after the due date prescribed by the board violates the terms of probation. R. If the board finds that the information provided under subsection K of this section warrants suspension or revocation of a license or certificate issued under this article, the board shall initiate formal proceedings pursuant to title 41, chapter 6, article 10. S. In a formal interview pursuant to subsection P of this section or in a hearing pursuant to subsection P, subsection Q, paragraph 7 or subsection R of this section, the board in addition to any other action may impose a civil penalty in the amount of at least $1,000 and not more than $10,000 for each violation of this article or a rule adopted under this article. P. T. The board may set aside an admission by default if a licensee or certificate holder shows good cause. A licensee or certificate holder who applies to the board to set aside an admission by default shall demonstrate the following to the satisfaction of the board: 1. The failure to respond to the notice of the board was due to excusable neglect. 2. The licensee or certificate holder has a meritorious defense. 3. The licensee or certificate holder made prompt application to the board for relief. Q. U. The board shall not consider an application to set aside an admission by default filed later than one hundred eighty days after the board's entry of the admission by default. R. V. A license or certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to any member of the Arizona national guard or the United States armed forces reserves shall not expire while the member is serving on federal active duty and shall be extended one hundred eighty days after the member returns from federal active duty, provided that if the member, or the legal representative of the member, notifies the board of the federal active duty status of the member. A license or certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to any member serving in the regular component of the United States armed forces shall be extended one hundred eighty days from after the date of expiration, provided that if the member, or the legal representative of the member, notifies the board of the federal active duty status of the member. If the license or certificate is renewed during the applicable extended time period, the member is responsible only for normal fees and activities relating to renewal of the license and shall not be charged any additional costs such as late fees or delinquency fees. The member, or the legal representative of the member, shall present to the board a copy of the member's official military orders, a redacted military identification card or a written verification from the member's commanding officer before the end of the applicable extended time period in order to qualify for the extension. S. W. A license or certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to any member of the Arizona national guard, the United States armed forces reserves or the regular component of the United States armed forces shall not expire and shall be extended one hundred eighty days from after the date the military member is able to perform activities necessary under the license or certificate if the member both: 1. Is released from active duty service. 2. Suffers an injury as a result of active duty service that temporarily prevents the member from being able to perform activities necessary under the license, certificate or registration. END_STATUTE Sec. 7. Section 36-446.12, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read: START_STATUTE36-446.12. Fees A. The board by rule shall establish nonrefundable fees and penalties for the following for nursing care institution administrators: 1. Initial application. 2. Examination for licensure as a nursing care institution administrator. 3. A license as a nursing care institution administrator. 4. Renewing an active biennial license. 5. Renewing an inactive biennial license. 6. A temporary license as a nursing care institution administrator. 7. Readministering the state examination. 8. Readministering the national examination. 9. A duplicate license. 10. Late renewal of a license. 11. Certifying licensure status. 12. Reviewing the sponsorship of continuing education programs, for each credit hour. 13. Reviewing an individual's request for continuing education credit hours, for each credit hour. 14. A duplicate license as a nursing care institution administrator. B. The board shall prorate on a monthly basis fees paid for an initial license as a nursing care institution administrator. C. The board by rule shall limit by percentage the amount it may increase a fee above the amount of a fee previously prescribed by the board pursuant to this section. END_STATUTE
8181
8282 Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Arizona:
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8484 Section 1. Section 36-446, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read:
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8686 START_STATUTE36-446. Definitions
8787
8888 In this article, unless the context otherwise requires:
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9090 1. "Administrator" or "nursing care institution administrator" means a person who is charged with the general administration of a nursing care institution, whether or not that person has an ownership interest in the institution and whether or not the person's functions and duties are shared with others.
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9292 2. "Assisted living facility" has the same meaning prescribed in section 36-401.
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9494 3. 2. "Assisted living facility manager" means a person who has responsibility for administering or managing an assisted living facility, whether or not that person has an ownership interest in the institution and whether or not the person's functions and duties are shared with others.
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9696 4. 3. "Assisted living facility training program" includes:
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9898 (a) Training that is required for assisted living facility manager certification.
9999
100100 (b) Training that is required for assisted living facility caregivers and that is either:
101101
102102 (i) Consistent with the training, competency and test methodology standards developed by the Arizona health care cost containment system administration for in-home direct care workers.
103103
104104 (ii) As prescribed in section 36-446.16.
105105
106106 5. 4. "Board" means the board of examiners of nursing care institution administrators and assisted living facility managers.
107107
108108 6. "Department" means the department of health services.
109109
110110 7. "Directed care services" has the same meaning prescribed in section 36-401.
111111
112112 8. "Director" means the director of the department of health services.
113113
114114 5. "Executive director" means the executive director of the board.
115115
116116 9. 6. "Felony involving violence or financial fraud" means any of the following offenses:
117117
118118 (a) Sexual abuse of a vulnerable adult.
119119
120120 (b) Homicide, including first or second degree murder, manslaughter or negligent homicide.
121121
122122 (c) Sexual assault.
123123
124124 (d) Sexual exploitation of a vulnerable adult.
125125
126126 (e) Commercial sexual exploitation of a vulnerable adult.
127127
128128 (f) Child abuse.
129129
130130 (g) Abuse of a vulnerable adult.
131131
132132 (h) Molestation of a child.
133133
134134 (i) Molestation of a vulnerable adult.
135135
136136 (j) A dangerous crime against children as defined in section 13-705.
137137
138138 (k) Neglect or abuse of a vulnerable adult.
139139
140140 (l) Sexual abuse.
141141
142142 (m) Causing one's spouse to become a prostitute.
143143
144144 (n) Detention of persons in a house of prostitution for debt.
145145
146146 (o) Pandering.
147147
148148 (p) A felony offense involving domestic violence as defined in section 13-3601 except for a felony offense involving only criminal damage in an amount of more than $250 but less than $1,000 if the offense was committed before June 29, 2009.
149149
150150 (q) Any felony offense in violation of title 13, chapter 12.
151151
152152 (r) Felony indecent exposure.
153153
154154 (s) Felony public sexual indecency.
155155
156156 (t) Terrorism.
157157
158158 (u) Any offense involving a violent crime as defined in section 13-901.03.
159159
160160 (v) Aggravated criminal damage.
161161
162162 (w) Theft.
163163
164164 (x) Theft by extortion.
165165
166166 (y) Forgery.
167167
168168 (z) Criminal possession of a forgery device.
169169
170170 (aa) Obtaining a signature by deception.
171171
172172 (bb) Theft of a credit card or obtaining a credit card by fraudulent means.
173173
174174 (cc) Receipt of anything of value obtained by fraudulent use of a credit card.
175175
176176 (dd) Forgery of a credit card.
177177
178178 (ee) Fraudulent use of a credit card.
179179
180180 (ff) Possession of any machinery, plate or other contrivance or incomplete credit card.
181181
182182 (gg) A false statement as to financial condition or identity to obtain a credit card.
183183
184184 (hh) Fraud by persons authorized to provide goods or services.
185185
186186 (ii) Credit card transaction record theft.
187187
188188 (jj) Adding poison or another harmful substance to food, drink or medicine.
189189
190190 (kk) A criminal offense involving criminal trespass under title 13, chapter 15.
191191
192192 (ll) A criminal offense involving burglary under title 13, chapter 15.
193193
194194 (mm) A criminal offense under title 13, chapter 23, except terrorism.
195195
196196 (nn) A felony offense involving domestic violence as defined in section 13-3601 if the offense involved only criminal damage in an amount of more than $250 but less than $1,000 and the offense was committed before June 29, 2009.
197197
198198 (oo) Taking the identity of another person or entity.
199199
200200 (pp) Aggravated taking the identity of another person or entity.
201201
202202 (qq) Trafficking in the identity of another person or entity.
203203
204204 (rr) Welfare fraud.
205205
206206 (ss) Kidnapping.
207207
208208 (tt) Robbery, aggravated robbery or armed robbery.
209209
210210 10. 7. "Nursing care institution":
211211
212212 (a) Means an institution or other place, however named, whether for profit or not, including facilities operated by this state or a subdivision of this state, that is advertised, offered, maintained or operated for the express or implied purpose of providing care to persons who need nursing services on a continuing basis but who do not require hospital care or care under the daily direction of a physician.
213213
214214 (b) Does not include:
215215
216216 (i) An institution for the care and treatment of the sick that is operated only for those who rely solely on treatment by prayer or spiritual means in accordance with the tenets of a recognized religious denomination.
217217
218218 (ii) Nursing care services that are an integral part of a hospital licensed pursuant to this chapter.
219219
220220 11. 8. "Unprofessional conduct" includes:
221221
222222 (a) Dishonesty, fraud, incompetency or gross negligence in performing administrative duties.
223223
224224 (b) Gross immorality or proselytizing religious views on patients without their consent.
225225
226226 (c) Other abuses of official responsibilities, which may include intimidating or neglecting patients. END_STATUTE
227227
228228 Sec. 2. Section 36-446.03, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read:
229229
230230 START_STATUTE36-446.03. Powers and duties of the board; rules; fees; fingerprinting
231231
232232 A. The board may adopt, amend or repeal reasonable and necessary rules and standards for the administration of this article in compliance with title XIX of the social security act, as amended.
233233
234234 B. The board by rule may adopt nonrefundable fees for the following:
235235
236236 1. Initial application for certification as an assisted living facility manager.
237237
238238 2. Examination for certification as an assisted living facility manager.
239239
240240 3. Issuance of a certificate as an assisted living facility manager, prorated monthly.
241241
242242 4. Biennial renewal of a certificate as an assisted living facility manager.
243243
244244 5. Issuance of a temporary certificate as an assisted living facility manager.
245245
246246 6. Readministering an examination for certification as an assisted living facility manager.
247247
248248 7. Issuance of a duplicate certificate as an assisted living facility manager.
249249
250250 8. Reviewing the sponsorship of continuing education programs, for each credit hour.
251251
252252 9. Late renewal of an assisted living facility manager certificate.
253253
254254 10. Reviewing an individual's request for continuing education credit hours, for each credit hour.
255255
256256 11. Reviewing initial applications for assisted living facility training programs.
257257
258258 12. Annual renewal of approved assisted living facility training programs.
259259
260260 C. The board may elect officers it deems necessary.
261261
262262 D. The board shall apply appropriate techniques, including examinations and investigations, to determine whether a person meets the qualifications prescribed in section 36-446.04.
263263
264264 E. On or before July 1, 2024 January 1, 2026, in addition to the requirements prescribed in section 36-446.04, the board shall require each applicant for initial nursing care institution administrator licensure or assisted living facility manager certification to submit a full set of fingerprints to the board for a state and federal criminal history records check pursuant to section 41-1750 and Public Law 92-544. The department of public safety may exchange this fingerprint data with the federal bureau of investigation.
265265
266266 F. On its own motion or in response to any complaint against or report of a violation by an administrator of a nursing care institution or a manager of an assisted living facility, the board may conduct investigations, hearings and other proceedings concerning any violation of this article or of rules adopted by the board or by the department.
267267
268268 G. In connection with an investigation or administrative hearing, the board may administer oaths and affirmations, subpoena witnesses, take evidence and require by subpoena the production of documents, records or other information in any form concerning matters the board deems relevant to the investigation or hearing. If any subpoena issued by the board is disobeyed, the board may invoke the aid of any court in this state in requiring the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of evidence.
269269
270270 H. Subject to title 41, chapter 4, article 4, the board may employ persons to provide investigative, professional and clerical assistance as required to perform its powers and duties under this article. Compensation for board employees shall be as determined pursuant to section 38-611. The board may contract with other state or federal agencies as required to carry out this article.
271271
272272 I. The board may appoint review committees to make recommendations concerning enforcement matters and the administration of this article.
273273
274274 J. The board by rule may establish a program to monitor licensees and certificate holders who are chemically dependent and who enroll in rehabilitation programs that meet board requirements. The board may take disciplinary action if a licensee or a certificate holder refuses to enter into an agreement to enroll in and complete a board-approved rehabilitation program or fails to abide by that agreement.
275275
276276 K. The board shall adopt and use an official seal.
277277
278278 L. The board shall adopt rules for the examination and licensure of nursing care institution administrators and the examination and certification of assisted living facility managers.
279279
280280 M. The board shall adopt rules governing payment to a person for the direct or indirect solicitation or procurement of assisted living facility patronage.
281281
282282 N. The board must provide the chairpersons of the senate and the house of representatives health committees with copies of all board minutes and executive decisions.
283283
284284 O. The board by rule shall limit by percentage the amount it may increase a fee above the amount of a fee previously prescribed by the board pursuant to this section.
285285
286286 P. The board by rule shall prescribe standards for assisted living facility training programs. The board shall prescribe rules for assisted living facility caregivers that are consistent with the training, competency and test methodology standards developed by the Arizona health care cost containment system administration for in-home direct care workers.
287287
288288 Q. The board may:
289289
290290 1. Grant, deny, suspend or revoke approval of, or place on probation, an assisted living facility training program.
291291
292292 2. Impose a civil penalty on an assisted living facility training program that violates this chapter or rules adopted pursuant to this chapter.
293293
294294 R. The board may delegate to the executive director the authority to:
295295
296296 1. Dismiss complaints. the executive director shall submit a report of the cases dismissed with the complaint number, respondent's name, credential number and investigation timeline to the board for review at its regular board meetings.
297297
298298 2. Directly refer cases to a formal administrative hearing.
299299
300300 3. Close a case resolved through mediation.
301301
302302 4. Issue letters of concern.
303303
304304 5. Enter into a consent agreement if there is evidence of danger to the public health and safety.
305305
306306 6. Refer cases to the board for a formal interview.
307307
308308 7. Issue cease and desist orders.
309309
310310 S. A person who is aggrieved by an action taken by the executive director pursuant subsection R of this section may request the board to review that action by filing with the board a written request within thirty days after that person is notified of the executive director's action by personal delivery or, if the notification is mailed to that person's last known residence or place of business, within thirty-five days after the date on the notification. At the next regular board meeting, the board shall review the executive director's action. On review, the board shall approve, modify or reject the executive director's action. END_STATUTE
311311
312312 Sec. 3. Section 36-446.04, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read:
313313
314314 START_STATUTE36-446.04. Qualifications; period of validity; exemption
315315
316316 A. The board shall issue a license as a nursing care institution administrator pursuant to its rules to any person who meets the following qualifications:
317317
318318 1. Has satisfactorily completed a course of instruction and training approved by the board that:
319319
320320 (a) Is designed and sufficiently administered to give the applicant knowledge of the proper needs to be served by nursing care institutions.
321321
322322 (b) Includes a thorough background in the laws and rules governing the operation of nursing care institutions and the protection of the interests of the patients in nursing care institutions.
323323
324324 (c) Includes thorough training in elements of good health care facilities administration.
325325
326326 2. Has passed an examination administered by the board designed to test for competency in the subject matter referred to in this subsection.
327327
328328 3. Has met one of the following fingerprinting requirements:
329329
330330 (a) Has a valid fingerprint clearance card issued pursuant to title 41, chapter 12, article 3.1 and has not been convicted of any felony involving violence or financial fraud.
331331
332332 (b) Has provided proof of the submission of an application for a fingerprint clearance card. An applicant who has been denied a fingerprint clearance card must also provide proof that the applicant qualifies for a good cause exception hearing pursuant to section 41-619.55 and has not been convicted of any felony involving violence or financial fraud.
333333
334334 4. Has obtained an associate degree in nursing or a related health profession or is licensed as a health professional in an inpatient health care institution.
335335
336336 B. A person who is licensed pursuant to this section must maintain a valid fingerprint clearance card during the valid period of the person's license.
337337
338338 C. The board shall issue a certificate as an assisted living facility manager pursuant to its rules to a person who meets the following qualifications:
339339
340340 1. Has satisfactorily completed a course of instruction and training approved by the board that:
341341
342342 (a) Is designed and sufficiently administered to give the applicant knowledge of the proper needs to be served by an assisted living facility.
343343
344344 (b) Includes a thorough background in the laws governing the operation of assisted living facilities and the protection of the interests of the patients in assisted living facilities.
345345
346346 (c) Includes thorough training in elements of assisted living facility administration.
347347
348348 2. Has passed an examination administered by the board that is designed to test for competency in the subject matter prescribed in this subsection.
349349
350350 3. Provides documentation satisfactory to the board that the applicant has completed two thousand eighty hours of paid work experience in a health related field within the preceding five years as prescribed by board rule.
351351
352352 4. Has met one of the following fingerprinting requirements:
353353
354354 (a) Has a valid fingerprint clearance card issued pursuant to title 41, chapter 12, article 3.1 and has not been convicted of any felony involving violence or financial fraud.
355355
356356 (b) Has provided proof of the submission of an application for a fingerprint clearance card. An applicant who has been denied a fingerprint clearance card must also provide proof that the applicant qualifies for a good cause exception hearing pursuant to section 41-619.55 and has not been convicted of any felony involving violence or financial fraud.
357357
358358 D. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, beginning July 1, 2021, all new licenses and certifications issued by the board must be approved by both the board and the department of health services.
359359
360360 E. A person who is certified pursuant to this section must maintain a valid fingerprint clearance card during the valid period of the person's certificate.
361361
362362 F. In lieu of the requirements contained in subsection A, paragraph 1 or subsection C, paragraph 1 of this section, an applicant may present satisfactory evidence to the board of sufficient education and training in the areas listed in the respective paragraph.
363363
364364 G. A license is nontransferable and remains in effect until thirty days after the licensee's birthday of in an even-numbered year, at which time the license may be renewed if the licensee otherwise complies with this article and the license has not been surrendered, suspended or revoked.
365365
366366 H. A certificate is nontransferable and remains in effect until thirty days after the certificate holder's birthday of in an odd-numbered year, at which time the certificate may be renewed if the certificate holder otherwise complies with this article and the certificate has not been surrendered, suspended or revoked.
367367
368368 I. This section does not apply to managers of adult foster care homes as defined in section 36-401. END_STATUTE
369369
370370 Sec. 4. Section 36-446.05, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read:
371371
372372 START_STATUTE36-446.05. Reciprocity; present administrators
373373
374374 The board may issue a nursing care institution administrator's license, without examination or with partial examination, to any person who holds a current license from another state or territory of the United States provided if both of the following apply:
375375
376376 1. The standards for licensure in such the other state or territory of the United States are at least substantially equivalent to those prevailing in this state, and provided that the applicant is otherwise qualified.
377377
378378 2. The applicant has not been disciplined or had an equivalent license revoked within one year before applying for a license pursuant to this article. END_STATUTE
379379
380380 Sec. 5. Section 36-446.06, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read:
381381
382382 START_STATUTE36-446.06. Temporary licenses and certificates; renewal
383383
384384 A. The board may issue a temporary nursing care institution administrator's license or temporary assisted living facility manager's certificate to individuals who are determined to meet standards established by the board and may revoke or suspend temporary licenses or certificates previously issued by the board in any case in which the individual holding a license or certificate is determined to have substantially failed to conform to the requirements of such standards during the term of the temporary license or certificate.
385385
386386 B. A temporary license or certificate is automatically revoked if the licensee or certificate holder fails either the state or national examination during the term of the license or certificate.
387387
388388 C. B. Temporary licenses or certificates may be issued without examination, for a single nonrenewable period of one hundred fifty days, to a qualified individual for the purpose of enabling the individual to fill a nursing care institution administrator or assisted living facility manager position. Qualifications for a temporary license or certificate shall include the ability to meet such other standards as are established by the board.
389389
390390 D. An applicant for a temporary license or certificate shall not have failed a state or national examination either before or after applying for the temporary license or certificate.
391391
392392 C. A temporary license or certificate may be renewed one time for an additional sixty days. END_STATUTE
393393
394394 Sec. 6. Section 36-446.07, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read:
395395
396396 START_STATUTE36-446.07. Disciplinary actions; grounds for disciplinary action; renewal; continuing education; inactive status; hearings; settlement; judicial review; admission by default; military members
397397
398398 A. The board may suspend or revoke the license of any nursing care institution administrator, censure or place on probation any licensed nursing care institution administrator or deny a license as a nursing care institution administrator to any person for any of the following reasons:
399399
400400 1. Conviction of a felony or conviction of any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude.
401401
402402 2. Obtaining or renewing a license by fraud or deceit.
403403
404404 3. Unprofessional conduct.
405405
406406 4. Practicing without biennial licensure.
407407
408408 5. Addiction to or dependency on drugs or alcohol.
409409
410410 6. Wrongful transfer of a license or falsely impersonating another licensee.
411411
412412 7. Unauthorized disclosure of information relating to a patient or a patient's records.
413413
414414 8. Payment to any person for solicitation or procurement, either directly or indirectly, of nursing home patronage.
415415
416416 9. Violation of this article or a rule adopted pursuant to this article.
417417
418418 B. The board may suspend or revoke the certificate of an assisted living facility manager, censure or place on probation an assisted living facility manager or deny a certificate as an assisted living facility manager to a person for any of the following reasons:
419419
420420 1. Conviction of a felony or conviction of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude.
421421
422422 2. Obtaining or renewing a certificate by fraud or deceit.
423423
424424 3. Unprofessional conduct.
425425
426426 4. Practicing without biennial certification.
427427
428428 5. Addiction to or dependency on drugs or alcohol.
429429
430430 6. Wrongful transfer of a certificate or falsely impersonating another certificate holder.
431431
432432 7. Unauthorized disclosure of information relating to a resident or a resident's records.
433433
434434 8. Violation of this article or a rule adopted pursuant to this article.
435435
436436 C. The board may impose a civil penalty in an amount of not to exceed five hundred dollars more than $500 on any nursing care institution administrator or assisted living facility manager who violates this article or any rule adopted pursuant to this article. Actions to enforce the collection of these penalties shall be brought in the name of this state by the attorney general or the county attorney in the justice court or the superior court in the county in which the violation occurred. Penalties imposed under this section are in addition to and not in limitation of other penalties imposed pursuant to this article.
437437
438438 D. The board may file a letter of concern if, in the opinion of the board, while there is insufficient evidence to support direct action against the license of the administrator or the certificate of the manager, there is sufficient evidence for the board to notify the administrator or manager of its concern. The board may issue a nondisciplinary order to a licensee or certificate holder who fails to complete continuing education requirements. A disciplinary or nondisciplinary order of the board may include a requirement to reimburse the board's investigative costs.
439439
440440 E. EXCEPT as provided in subsection V of this section, every holder of a nursing care institution administrator's license shall renew it biennially the license every two years by making application applying to the board. The renewals shall be granted as a matter of course if the holder has successfully completed at least fifty hours of continuing education every two years as established by the board in its rules, unless the applicant has acted or failed to act in such a manner or under such circumstances as that would constitute grounds for taking any of the disciplinary actions permitted allowed by this section. The board shall maintain a log of each complaint substantiated by the board or a deficiency report concerning an administrator and shall retain in the administrator's file a copy of each such complaint or report and the action taken on it, if any. The board shall review and consider the administrator's file in determining whether to renew the administrator's license.
441441
442442 F. Except as provided in subsection R V of this section, every holder of an assisted living facility manager's certificate shall renew it biennially the certificate every two years by making application applying to the board. The renewals shall be granted as a matter of course if the holder has successfully completed continuing education every two years as established by the board in its rules, unless the applicant has acted or failed to act in a manner or under circumstances that constitute grounds for taking disciplinary action permitted allowed by this section. The board shall maintain a log of each complaint substantiated by the board or a deficiency report concerning a manager and shall retain in the manager's file a copy of each complaint or report and the action taken on it, if any. The board shall review and consider the manager's file in determining whether to renew the manager's certificate.
443443
444444 G. Except as provided in subsection R v of this section, failure on the part of any licensed nursing care institution administrator or certified assisted living facility manager to furnish evidence of having attended the required continuing education hours during the preceding two years shall preclude renewal of the license or certificate unless the continuing education requirement is fulfilled within one hundred twenty days.
445445
446446 H. On written request to the board, a nursing care institution administrator in good standing may cause the administrator's name and license to be transferred to an inactive list. Any nursing care institution administrator on inactive license status shall pay a license renewal fee. On written request to the board, and subsequent approval by the board, a nursing care institution administrator on inactive license status may resume active license status on meeting twenty-five hours of continuing education requirements within six months and payment of paying the current fee.
447447
448448 I. On written request to the board, the board shall transfer an assisted living facility manager in good standing to an inactive list. An assisted living facility manager on inactive certificate status shall pay a certificate renewal fee prescribed by the board of not more than one hundred dollars $100 every two years. On written request to the board, and subsequent approval by the board, an assisted living facility manager on inactive certificate status may resume active certificate status on meeting requirements for six hours of continuing education within six months and payment of paying the current fee.
449449
450450 J. Suspension, revocation or denial of renewal of a license or certificate or censure or probation of a licensee or certificate holder by the board becomes effective only on the board's first giving the licensee or certificate holder prior written notice and affording the licensee or certificate holder the right to request a hearing within thirty-five days of after the receipt of notice. A hearing is not required before the denial of an original application for a license or a certificate. All hearings shall be conducted pursuant to title 41, chapter 6, article 10.
451451
452452 K. Any person wishing to make a complaint against a licensee or certificate holder under this article shall file a written complaint with the board within one year from after the date of the action causing the complaint. If the board determines that the charges made in the complaint are sufficient, if true, to warrant suspension or revocation of a license or certificate issued under this article or censure or probation of a licensee or certificate holder under this article, it shall issue an order fixing the time and place for a hearing and requiring the licensee or certificate holder complained against to appear and answer the complaint. The order shall have affixed to it a copy of the complaint, and both shall be served on the licensee or certificate holder either personally or by certified mail sent to the licensee's or the certificate holder's last known address at least thirty-five days before the date set for the hearing. All hearings shall be conducted pursuant to title 41, chapter 6, article 10.
453453
454454 L. The board and an administrator or manager may enter into a settlement of any matter under investigation either before or after a notice of the hearing has been issued if the board determines that the proposed settlement adequately protects the public safety, health and welfare. The board shall record the terms of each settlement entered into and shall make the record available for public inspection.
455455
456456 M. Except as provided in section 41-1092.08, subsection H, final decisions of the board are subject to judicial review pursuant to title 12, chapter 7, article 6.
457457
458458 N. If the board has initiated an investigation pursuant to this section, the board may continue the investigation and discipline the person under investigation even if that person resigns from practice after the board has initiated the investigation.
459459
460460 O. A licensee or certificate holder shall respond in writing to the board within thirty-five days after the board serves the complaint and notice of a formal hearing by certified mail. Service is complete on the date the board places the notice in the mail. The board shall consider a licensee's or certificate holder's failure to respond to the notice within thirty-five days as an admission by default to the allegations stated in the complaint. The board may then take disciplinary action against the licensee or certificate holder without conducting a formal hearing.
461461
462462 P. If after completing its investigation the board believes that the information provided under subsection K of this section is or may be true, the board may request a formal interview with the licensee or certificate holder. If the licensee or certificate holder refuses the invitation for a formal interview or accepts and the results indicate that grounds may exist for revocation or suspension of the license or certificate for more than twelve months, the board shall issue a formal complaint and order that a hearing be held pursuant to title 41, chapter 6, article 10. If after completing a formal interview the board finds that the protection of the public requires emergency action, the board may order a summary suspension of the license or certificate pending formal revocation proceedings or other action authorized by this section.
463463
464464 Q. If after completing the formal interview the board finds the information provided under subsection K of this section is not of sufficient seriousness to merit suspension for more than twelve months or revocation of the license or certificate, the board may take any of the following actions:
465465
466466 1. Dismiss if, in the opinion of the board, the complaint is without merit.
467467
468468 2. Require the licensee or certificate holder to complete designated continuing education courses.
469469
470470 3. File a letter of concern. The licensee or certificate holder may file a written response with the board within thirty days after the licensee or certificate holder receives the letter of concern. A letter of concern is a public document.
471471
472472 4. Enter into an agreement with the licensee or certificate holder to restrict or limit the licensee's or certificate holder's professional activities or to rehabilitate, retrain or assess the licensee or certificate holder in order to protect the public. The board may also require the licensee or certificate holder to successfully complete a board-approved rehabilitative, retraining or assessment program at the licensee's or certificate holder's own expense.
473473
474474 5. File a letter of reprimand.
475475
476476 6. Issue a decree of censure. A decree of censure is an official action against the license or certificate and may include a requirement for restitution of fees to a patient resulting from any violation of this article or rules adopted pursuant to this article.
477477
478478 7. Fix a period and terms of probation best adapted to protect the public health and safety and rehabilitate or educate the licensee or certificate holder. Probation may include temporary suspension for not more than twelve months, a restriction of the license or certificate or education or rehabilitation at the licensee's or certificate holder's own expense. If a licensee or certificate holder fails to comply with the terms of probation, the board shall serve the licensee or certificate holder with a written notice that states that the licensee or certificate holder is subject to a formal hearing based on the information considered by the board at the formal interview and on any other act or conduct alleged to be in violation of this article or rules adopted by the board pursuant to this article, including noncompliance with the terms of probation, a consent agreement or a stipulated agreement. The licensee or certificate holder shall pay the costs associated with probation monitoring each year during which the licensee or certificate holder is on probation. The board may adjust this amount on an annual basis. The board may allow a licensee or certificate holder to make payments on an installment plan if a financial hardship occurs. A licensee or certificate holder who does not pay these costs within thirty days after the due date prescribed by the board violates the terms of probation.
479479
480480 R. If the board finds that the information provided under subsection K of this section warrants suspension or revocation of a license or certificate issued under this article, the board shall initiate formal proceedings pursuant to title 41, chapter 6, article 10.
481481
482482 S. In a formal interview pursuant to subsection P of this section or in a hearing pursuant to subsection P, subsection Q, paragraph 7 or subsection R of this section, the board in addition to any other action may impose a civil penalty in the amount of at least $1,000 and not more than $10,000 for each violation of this article or a rule adopted under this article.
483483
484484 P. T. The board may set aside an admission by default if a licensee or certificate holder shows good cause. A licensee or certificate holder who applies to the board to set aside an admission by default shall demonstrate the following to the satisfaction of the board:
485485
486486 1. The failure to respond to the notice of the board was due to excusable neglect.
487487
488488 2. The licensee or certificate holder has a meritorious defense.
489489
490490 3. The licensee or certificate holder made prompt application to the board for relief.
491491
492492 Q. U. The board shall not consider an application to set aside an admission by default filed later than one hundred eighty days after the board's entry of the admission by default.
493493
494494 R. V. A license or certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to any member of the Arizona national guard or the United States armed forces reserves shall not expire while the member is serving on federal active duty and shall be extended one hundred eighty days after the member returns from federal active duty, provided that if the member, or the legal representative of the member, notifies the board of the federal active duty status of the member. A license or certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to any member serving in the regular component of the United States armed forces shall be extended one hundred eighty days from after the date of expiration, provided that if the member, or the legal representative of the member, notifies the board of the federal active duty status of the member. If the license or certificate is renewed during the applicable extended time period, the member is responsible only for normal fees and activities relating to renewal of the license and shall not be charged any additional costs such as late fees or delinquency fees. The member, or the legal representative of the member, shall present to the board a copy of the member's official military orders, a redacted military identification card or a written verification from the member's commanding officer before the end of the applicable extended time period in order to qualify for the extension.
495495
496496 S. W. A license or certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to any member of the Arizona national guard, the United States armed forces reserves or the regular component of the United States armed forces shall not expire and shall be extended one hundred eighty days from after the date the military member is able to perform activities necessary under the license or certificate if the member both:
497497
498498 1. Is released from active duty service.
499499
500500 2. Suffers an injury as a result of active duty service that temporarily prevents the member from being able to perform activities necessary under the license, certificate or registration. END_STATUTE
501501
502502 Sec. 7. Section 36-446.12, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended to read:
503503
504504 START_STATUTE36-446.12. Fees
505505
506506 A. The board by rule shall establish nonrefundable fees and penalties for the following for nursing care institution administrators:
507507
508508 1. Initial application.
509509
510510 2. Examination for licensure as a nursing care institution administrator.
511511
512512 3. A license as a nursing care institution administrator.
513513
514514 4. Renewing an active biennial license.
515515
516516 5. Renewing an inactive biennial license.
517517
518518 6. A temporary license as a nursing care institution administrator.
519519
520520 7. Readministering the state examination.
521521
522522 8. Readministering the national examination.
523523
524524 9. A duplicate license.
525525
526526 10. Late renewal of a license.
527527
528528 11. Certifying licensure status.
529529
530530 12. Reviewing the sponsorship of continuing education programs, for each credit hour.
531531
532532 13. Reviewing an individual's request for continuing education credit hours, for each credit hour.
533533
534534 14. A duplicate license as a nursing care institution administrator.
535535
536536 B. The board shall prorate on a monthly basis fees paid for an initial license as a nursing care institution administrator.
537537
538538 C. The board by rule shall limit by percentage the amount it may increase a fee above the amount of a fee previously prescribed by the board pursuant to this section. END_STATUTE